This Is The Kit is the band fronted by Kate Stables. She sings (beautifully) and plays guitar and banjo. The music would be categorised as folk, but there’s a bit more to it than that. It’s rooted in the folk tradition and the melodies are appropriately wistful and yearning, with a quirky lyrical touch at times. I first came across them on Marc Riley’s BBC 6 Music show earlier this year. the album “Bashed Out” will be high in my 2015 Top Ten. I saw them at Latitude, where they were great, though a bit stressed by their hideous journey up the A12 which had almost made them late.

Tonight was just fantastic. Wonderful songs, brilliantly played. Atmospheric sounds at times and really touching. Kate herself is a very engaging person and the vibe in the Scala was communal. There’s a bit of the hippy about the whole thing, and while that is not a direction I’ve ever taken, I can relate to it. So natural.

“Bashed Out” featured heavily, which was absolutely fine by me. If there was a highlight amongst all the great performances it might be “Misunderstanding”, a song I find entrancing. Enhanced live by some soaring guitar from (I think) Neil Smith, as were many of the songs.

Rozi Plain, a solo artist who made a good album this year herself, called “Friend”, played some solid bass lines and added airy supporting vocals. A great partnership with Kate.

They were supported by a German band called Cristobal by the Sea.  They played in the style of Vampire Weekend, with a resonant, funky bass. Glad, for once, that we turned up in time for the support!

So, a wonderful concert. I urge you to listen to “Bashed Out” and then, if location allows, check them out live.